Wrongful Termination Attorneys Serving Workers in the San Francisco Bay Area and Throughout California
Losing your job can be one of the most stressful experiences in life, especially if you believe you were fired unfairly. At Bay Area Employment Law Group LLP, we understand how devastating a wrongful termination can be, not only financially but emotionally as well. Our experienced employment law attorneys are dedicated to holding employers accountable when they violate the rights of their employees. We’ll work to undo the damage done and make you whole again so that you are fairly compensated for the harm you suffered and have a strong sense that justice has been done. Call us today for immediate assistance or to start a conversation with our dedicated Bay Area employment lawyers.
What Is Wrongful Termination?
Wrongful termination occurs when an employer fires an employee for reasons that are illegal or violate public policy. While most employment in California is “at-will,” meaning an employer can terminate an employee for any reason or no reason at all, there are critical exceptions. If you were fired for discriminatory reasons, in retaliation for exercising your rights, or under circumstances that contravene state or federal law, you may have a wrongful termination claim.
There are many circumstances under which a termination may be considered wrongful under California law, most notably including the following:
- Discrimination
Employers cannot fire employees based on protected characteristics, such as race, gender, age, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, pregnancy, disability, or mental illness. - Retaliation
Firing an employee for reporting illegal activities, workplace safety violations, or harassment is against the law. Retaliation for filing a workers’ compensation claim or participating in a discrimination investigation is also prohibited. - Violation of Public Policy
Employers may not terminate employees for reasons that violate public policy, such as:- Taking time off under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) or California Family Rights Act (CFRA).
- Filing a claim for workers’ compensation benefits.
- Exercising your right to vote or serve on a jury.
- Medical and Disability Issues
Employees cannot be fired for taking medical leave, requesting reasonable accommodations for a disability, or needing time off for pregnancy-related issues. - Whistleblower Termination
Employees who report employer misconduct, such as fraud, wage violations, or environmental hazards, are protected under California’s whistleblower laws.
How We Can Help You
Pursuing a wrongful termination claim successfully requires an in-depth understanding of California and federal employment laws. At Bay Area Employment Law Group LLP, we provide comprehensive legal representation tailored to the unique details of your case. Our services include:
- Evaluating whether your termination violated California or federal law.
- Gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses to support your claim.
- Negotiating with employers and their legal teams to secure a fair settlement.
- Representing you in court, if necessary, to fight for justice and compensation.
Potential Compensation for Wrongful Termination
If your case is successful, you may be entitled to recover a wide range of different types of compensation, including, for instance, lost wages, including back pay and future earnings (front pay). Other costs associated with the firing, such as lost benefits like health insurance and retirement contributions, job search costs, etc., are recoverable as well. Compensation for emotional distress is available in many instances, as are punitive damages in cases where the employer’s conduct was particularly egregious or involved fraud or concealment. Successful plaintiffs can have the attorneys’ fees and court costs paid by the employer as well, allowing you to keep the full amount of your damages award.
Speak with a San Francisco Bay Area Wrongful Termination Attorney Today
At Bay Area Employment Law Group LLP, we are passionate about protecting employees from unlawful terminations. If you believe you were wrongfully fired, our skilled attorneys can help you explore your legal options and fight for the justice you deserve. Wrongful termination claims are subject to strict deadlines, so it’s essential to act quickly. By contacting our experienced legal team, you can ensure your case is handled promptly and effectively. Call 510-295-0090 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a consultation today.
Bay Area Employment Law Group LLP—Advocating for Fair Treatment in the Workplace throughout the Bay Area and beyond.
